The Washington Wizards have dipped into the NBA alum pool in the G-League twice in the same week. First, they waived Jonathan Pierre to make room for Leaky Black, who played for the Capital City Go-Go last season. Once again, the Wizards have cut one to make room for another.
Wizard To Add Skal Labissiere Ahead of Preseason
Washington chose to bring in Skal Labissiere on an Exhibit 10 deal on Monday. Last month, Washington and Labissiere reached an agreement, a camp deal that would grant them his G League rights. However, it was surprising to find him off the camp roster. Now, it seems he’ll be ready to go for the Wizards’ preseason.
Labissiere’s Standout Campaign
The 28th pick in the 2016 draft has been in and out of the league since his first season. However, the G League has given Labissiere ample opportunities to show he can still play at an NBA level. Last season, Labissiere played in 28 games for the Stockton Kings and averaged 16.1 points, 8.2 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.3 blocks.
While he’s been impressive in his G League play, it hasn’t translated to the NBA hardwood yet. Last season was the first time since 2020 that Labissiere got to step on the court, appearing in four games for the Sacramento Kings, but only averaging three minutes per contest. Could Washington be the team to finally unlock Labissiere’s true potential?
Labissiere In, Who’s Out?
As mentioned, the Wizards did have to make some room for Labissiere. Akoldah Gak signed an Exhibit 10 deal with the Wizards but was let go in order for Labissiere to join the team. Similar to the Pierre-Black situation, cutting Gak brings in another NBA alum with plenty of grit to give the young guys tough competition.
Gak played in the Hungry Jack’s National Basketball League (NBL) in Australia last season. Through his 21 games in the NBL, Gak averaged 6.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, and just under an assist a game. With the news of him being cut, Gak has two options for his immediate future.
One, Gak could go back to Australia and continue to play in the NBL, possibly missing out on another opportunity in the NBA. The second option is to remain in the United States and play in the G League. Washington would own his rights, and the Go-Go is arguably the best chance at a quick turnaround to the NBA. Wizards General Manager Will Dawkins told the media that the G League team will be used a lot differently this year with so many players needing development.
Labissiere’s Overlooked Fit
Labissiere fits on this Washington roster well. The 29-year-old may not fit the rebuild timeline; however, he could play some rotational minutes this season for the Wizards. At 6’10”, Labissiere could play the forward position and add some solid minutes at the center spot.
Washington has Alex Sarr and Marvin Bagley III as the only big men on the roster. Sarr has previously said he prefers to play the four, which would give Labissiere a great opportunity to get minutes. Labissiere’s chances for the Wizards roster are much stronger than Black’s, so don’t be surprised if the Wizards call upon him if injuries arise.
The Last Word
Labissiere has landed himself an excellent opportunity. While he almost certainly won’t make Washington’s roster right away, he could find himself in the rotation quickly with the lack of depth at the two big spots. The Wizards get his rights in the G-League, and much like Black, will keep a close eye on him throughout next season.
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